Cheltenham town centre is poised to become a key focus in Gloucestershire County Council’s push to implement 20mph speed limits, prompted by concerns over collisions and the desire to encourage safer cycling and walking environments.
Roger Whyborn, the county council’s road safety chief (LD, Benhall and Up Hatherley), addressed criticisms of the proposed scheme, clarifying that it is “far from a blanket proposal.” The initiative forms part of the council’s broader Safer Roads and Community 20s programme, which also targets areas such as Swindon Village, Leckhampton with Warden Hill, Prestbury, Charlton Kings, and Up Hatherley.
While the consultation has attracted backlash from the Cheltenham Civic Society—who described it as a “disappointing and weakly-evidenced exercise”—the council maintains that the plan is rooted in comprehensive data analysis. The conservation group supports road safety improvements but questions whether the speed limit is the most effective way to address the causes of collisions.
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Councillor Whyborn explained that Cheltenham ranks near the top of the council’s priority list due to collision statistics, the impact of traffic on walking and cycling, and social deprivation factors. He emphasized the substantial body of evidence supporting 20mph limits in residential and working areas, highlighting benefits such as reduced accidents, improved air quality, and enhanced community ambiance.
He also noted that more than 150 towns and parishes have expressed support for 20mph schemes, often seeking area-wide implementation rather than limited road selections. “Far from being a blanket scheme across all roads, there are carefully considered exceptions where higher speed limits remain based on the specific characteristics of each road,” said Whyborn.
The council is reviewing extensive public feedback from the initial consultation, which gauged reactions not only to the concept of 20mph zones but also to proposed changes on individual roads. The high volume of responses is being analyzed thoroughly, with adjustments expected before presenting the scheme for formal approval via a traffic order.
By combining detailed speed and collision data analysis with community input, Gloucestershire County Council aims to create safer, more pleasant streets in Cheltenham and other selected areas, balancing road safety with the needs and views of residents.